It's not even the aesthetics. Why are builders allowed to get away with using OSB instead of 3/4 ply or actual barn board planks, for example? I don't care that "it's good enough to meet code." I want it to not blow away in a stiff breeze.
Other very very simple things that require work but are worth it:
1. having a central supply manifold for the plumbing with the ability to isolate each room - sure, put isolation valves near the faucet, shower, and toilet - but having one location where everything is labeled is more convenient than trying to pop off a facade or break through drywall in the event of a leak to get to the isolation valve.
2. having a maintenance room with ability to access things easily rather than a tiny little closet or having to go to a crawlspace to service the furnace or hot water heater.
3. Explain to me again why we nail drywall to studs where we then have to mud and tape instead of having the ability to mount them on brackets that could attach to the studs, making them easy to remove. I'm thinking fire-rated equivalents to the mounting methods used for cubicle walls. Now - I can confirm that I won't be accidentally putting a hole in a pipe when I go to hang that picture frame. I can fish speaker wires without having to fish them. You get the idea.
4. Explain to me why electrical distribution panels are never properly labeled and why they are always just barely above the requirement. Give me 200 amp service even if I only use 100 amps worth of loads. Make the breakers big enough. I don't need to have the breaker trip for the kitchen outlets when I use the electric kettle at the same time as the toaster oven.
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